The Minnesota Vikings have faced a tough blow with the injury of their first-round pick, former Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who hurt his knee during Week 1 of the preseason. After experiencing knee discomfort, it was determined that he required meniscus surgery.
Read more: Vikings QB JJ McCarthy Out for Entire 2024 NFL Season
In deciding between trimming the meniscus or opting for complete repair, the stakes were high. A trim would have sidelines McCarthy for a few weeks, while a full repair would keep him out for several months.
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The Vikings and McCarthy ultimately chose the full repair, which means his 2024 season is officially over. McCarthy was in a competitive battle for the starting role against veteran quarterback Sam Darnold, who will now take the helm moving forward.
Although a comeback might have been feasible depending on his recovery, the team has decided to conclude his playing season.
Vikings placed QB J.J. McCarthy on season-ending injured reserve and, in a corresponding move, signed former Panthers QB Matt Corral.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 16, 2024
Corral, drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, has had a tumultuous career. His 2022 season was cut short by a Lisfranc injury in preseason. Attempting a comeback in 2023, he was waived by the Panthers just days after making the 53-man roster, subsequently signing with the New England Patriots, where his tenure was also short-lived after an unexcused absence.
Eventually, Corral landed in the UFL with the Birmingham Stallions, starting three out of four games, throwing for 494 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, alongside an 81.0 passer rating.
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Corral now joins a Vikings quarterback group featuring Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall. Mullens is the clear backup, leaving Corral and Hall to compete for the third spot.
Injuries can strike at any time, making depth crucial. Although Corral is still developing his NFL experience, he’s a necessary addition to bolster the Vikings’ thinning quarterback roster.